Hogwarts Legacy’s release is shadowed by J.K Rowling’s problematic takes regarding transgender people, which is why a certain character dubbed Sirona Ryan is gaining popularity.Â
Hogwarts Legacy has numerous notable characters belonging to the iconic bloodlines in the original Harry Potter series. But, now that the game is out in the open, people are less focused on the likes of Phineas Nigellus Black, Matilda Weasley, and more. Instead, Sirona Ryan is wagging tongues. Here’s why.
Who is Sirona Ryan in Hogwarts Legacy?
Sirona Ryan is Hogwarts Legacy’s first transgender woman who appears early on in the game. She’s the owner of the Three Broomsticks Inn, a place that serves snacks and Butterbeer.
Hogwarts Legacy is getting stellar reviews, but it’s also at the receiving end of severe flak. J.K Rowling’s transphobic comments have led players to boycott the game, and in light of these events, Sirona Ryan’s presence hasn’t precisely made the LBTQ+ community any happier. While many believe it’s just a way to slip the author’s remarks under the rug, others are nit-picking awful trans representation.
Critics are calling out the developer for picking out a masculine name that starts with a “Sir.” It could just be a coincidence since Sirona was a Celtic goddess of healing, with snakes and eggs as her symbols. Some are unhappy with the overly masculine surname Ryan, while others say that the developer could have picked a different spelling.
Whatever the case, Sirona’s addition to the cast is primarily positive. Talking to IGN, Portkey games said that diversity in Hogwarts Legacy is of utmost importance but didn’t precisely comment on Sirona’s character.
“The team felt that it was very important to create a game that is representative of the rich and diverse world of Harry Potter as well as the groups of people who play games, which includes the LGBTQIA+ community,” Portkey said.
How to meet Sirona in Hogwarts Legacy
Players can visit Sirona in Three Broomstick Inn in Hogsmeade. When you get there with your partner, Sirona will offer you a tour and free Butterbeer!
Sirona is a friendly character who protects the leading player and their partner from Rookwood and his partner Harlow. After shooing the two out of the bar, Sirona chats with the player and mentions how many mistook her for a wizard, not a witch. From here, the main player can build a friendship with Sirona Ryan.
As the game progresses, players may find out more about Sirona Ryan.
